MLS: Week 4 Predictions – Nathan vs. The Field

Predicting MLS results is like trying to chase a group of beach balls on a windy day. You may get a few, but a perfect run is a seemingly impossible task.

The Columbus Crew off to a great two-match winning start? No goals against the Philadelphia Union. Those defensive troubles Minnesota was supposed to still be dealing with? Three points over the Chicago Fire. Seattle has the depth to get a result in Dallas? A red card and another loss. Welcome to MLS, the land of unpredictability and entertainment.

Even with the roller coaster of a season so far, we press on with predictions as we approach a relatively quiet Week 4. Due to the international break, there are only six league games, and all on Saturday.

Week 3 Results

To be fair, Week 3’s guest, Tyler Hanson, was able to correctly predict the result of four of the nine games. However, my 2-0 prediction for NYCFC over Orlando City was spot on to land 40 points, and tie everything up for the season after three weeks.

The Field (Tyler): 4 correct results = 40 points
Nathan: 2 correct results, including 1 exact scoreline = 50 points.

Season Total

The Field: 140 points
Nathan: 140 points

Week 4 Predictions

Representing the field for week four is Dan Garza. USMNT, USWNT, Americans Abroad, and MLS, Dan has you covered. Also, make sure to give him a follow on Twitter @dgarza42. Dan starts on level ground, just like Jordan did in week 1 after strong results from Liam and Tyler.

More from MLS Multiplex

New York City FC at New England Revolution
- Nathan: NYCFC 2-0. The only club with three wins and an improved defense with only one goal conceded so far.
- Dan: NYCFC 3-1. It might take a while for the rest of the Eastern Conference to figure out how to beat NYCFC.
Portland Timbers at FC Dallas
- Nathan: FC Dallas 2-1. FC Dallas gets another visit from a struggling Cascadia team this week. Confidence should be high for another three points after topping a 10-man Seattle.
- Dan: FC Dallas 4-0. Portland is in trouble and it’s hard to like their chances on the road in this one.
- DC United at Columbus Crew
  - Nathan: Columbus 2-0. Back at home, still undefeated after three, look for Zardes to find the back of the net once again.
  - Dan: 1-1 Draw. Gyasi Zardes scores but DC come up with a late equalizer.
  - Minnesota United at New York Red Bulls
    - Nathan: Red Bulls 2-1. The Loons have found form even without Kevin Molino, but a fully rested New York side back at home should be too much in week 4.
    - Dan: Red Bulls 2-1. Wright-Phillips bags a brace as the Red Bulls hold off Minnesota
    - Sporting KC at Colorado Rapids
      - Nathan: Sporting KC 2-0. SKC has scored seven and conceded seven already – entertaining at least. Meanwhile, the Rapids still don’t seem to have an attacking identity.
      - Dan: Sporting KC 3-2. Tim Howard scores a diving header to tie the game in the final minute. Just kidding, but the Rapids look like their are in for a rough year.
      - LA Galaxy at Vancouver Whitecaps
        Nathan: Vancouver 2-1. The Whitecaps return home, look to take out the anger from Watson’s red card on someone. In comes an LA Galaxy side missing nearly an entire lineup.
        Dan: 1-1 Draw. Ola Kamara and Erik Hurtado exchange goals in a what should be an exciting game in the west.
        Next: USMNT abroad: Novakovich tear continues, Boyd scores and more
        Outside of exact scorelines, the Columbus/DC and LA/Vancouver matches are where either the Field or myself can take a lead heading out of week four. Think you can correctly pick MLS matchday fou? Then send us your thoughts on Twitter @natebynorthwest & @dgarza42.